23696, Seaford, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23696, Seaford, Virginia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the 23696 Area: A Deep Dive

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to top-tier medical care. For residents near ZIP code 23696 (Yorktown, Virginia), several hospitals offer comprehensive services. This review delves into the key players, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and specific offerings to help patients make informed decisions.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The Hampton Roads region, encompassing Yorktown, boasts a mix of large, established hospitals and smaller, specialized facilities. Factors like proximity, insurance coverage, and personal preferences will influence the best choice. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering their breast cancer-related services, quality metrics, and patient experience.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center: A Flagship Institution**

Riverside Regional Medical Center, located in Newport News, is a major healthcare provider serving the 23696 area. As a flagship hospital, it offers a wide range of services, including comprehensive breast cancer care. Riverside is a large facility, with a substantial medical staff and advanced technology.

The hospital's breast cancer program is well-regarded. They offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to create individualized treatment plans. Riverside has a dedicated breast center, providing a centralized location for screenings, diagnostics, and treatment.

**CMS Star Rating and ER Wait Times:** Riverside Regional Medical Center generally receives a good rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), reflecting its overall quality of care. However, specific star ratings can fluctuate, so it’s crucial to check the most recent data on the CMS Hospital Compare website. ER wait times can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume. Data on average wait times is available on the hospital's website and through third-party sources like Google.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Riverside's breast center provides a range of services, including mammography, ultrasound, breast MRI, and biopsies. They offer surgical options, including lumpectomy and mastectomy, along with reconstructive surgery. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are administered on-site. The hospital also has support groups and patient navigators to assist patients throughout their journey.

**Telehealth Integration:** Riverside has invested in telehealth services, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues. The availability of telehealth services for breast cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center: Proximity and Community Focus**

Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, located closer to the 23696 ZIP code, offers a more community-focused approach to healthcare. While smaller than Riverside, it provides essential services, including breast cancer screening and treatment.

Sentara Williamsburg's breast cancer program focuses on early detection and personalized care. They offer mammography and other diagnostic imaging services. Surgical options are available, and patients have access to medical oncology and radiation therapy through partnerships with other Sentara facilities.

**CMS Star Rating and ER Wait Times:** Sentara Williamsburg generally receives a good CMS star rating. ER wait times tend to be shorter than at larger hospitals, but this can vary. The hospital's website and third-party sources provide data on wait times.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Sentara Williamsburg has a dedicated breast health center offering screening mammograms and diagnostic services. While they may not have the same breadth of services as Riverside, they provide a convenient option for residents in the immediate area. Patients may be referred to other Sentara facilities for more specialized treatments.

**Telehealth Integration:** Sentara, like Riverside, has expanded its telehealth capabilities. Virtual consultations and follow-up appointments are available, providing increased access to care.

**Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital: A Catholic Healthcare Provider**

Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital, located in Newport News, is another option for breast cancer care. As a Catholic healthcare provider, it operates under specific ethical guidelines.

Mary Immaculate offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment. They have a dedicated breast center providing a range of services.

**CMS Star Rating and ER Wait Times:** Mary Immaculate generally receives a good CMS star rating. ER wait times vary, so it’s important to check the latest data.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Mary Immaculate's breast center offers mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy services. They provide surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The hospital also has support services and patient navigators.

**Telehealth Integration:** Mary Immaculate has integrated telehealth services, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Facilities and Outpatient Clinics**

Beyond the major hospitals, several smaller facilities and outpatient clinics offer breast cancer-related services in the 23696 area. These may include imaging centers, surgical centers, and oncology practices.

**Imaging Centers:** Several imaging centers provide mammograms and other diagnostic imaging services. These facilities are often more convenient for routine screenings.

**Surgical Centers:** Some surgical centers offer breast surgery, including lumpectomy and mastectomy. These facilities may provide a more focused surgical experience.

**Oncology Practices:** Numerous oncology practices provide medical oncology and radiation therapy. These practices often have close relationships with the major hospitals, allowing for seamless coordination of care.

**The Importance of Patient Experience**

While hospital ratings and service offerings are important, patient experience is equally crucial. Consider factors like the hospital's reputation for patient satisfaction, the availability of support services, and the ease of access to care.

**Research and Due Diligence**

Before making a decision, patients should conduct thorough research. This includes:

* **Reviewing Hospital Websites:** Examine the websites of each hospital to learn about their breast cancer programs, services, and patient testimonials.
* **Checking CMS Data:** Consult the CMS Hospital Compare website for the latest star ratings, wait times, and other quality metrics.
* **Reading Online Reviews:** Read patient reviews on websites like Google, Healthgrades, and Vitals to get a sense of other patients' experiences.
* **Consulting with Primary Care Physicians:** Discuss treatment options and recommendations with your primary care physician.
* **Seeking Second Opinions:** Consider getting a second opinion from another oncologist or surgeon.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. The best choice depends on individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. By considering the factors outlined in this review, patients near ZIP code 23696 can make informed decisions and access the best possible care. The hospitals mentioned, Riverside Regional Medical Center, Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, and Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital, each offer distinct advantages. Remember to prioritize your comfort, trust your instincts, and advocate for your own health.